It’s Cool to Meet you!

The environment, rhythm and pace of the salon was comfortable, despite the chance of feeling "out of place." It lacked the "fancy,"nose up in the air feel of previous places I'd been to. Instead, I was greeted by red walls with black diamonds, electric guitars, an antique soda dispenser and skull coasters.

Over a two and a half hour mani-pedi, I had the chance to meet (and get to know) a cool,captivating and engaging "Punk" girl. Although she was only 23, she carried herself with greater maturity. She was well spoken and our conversation was thought provoking. As I tapped my foot to what she claimed were some of her favorite tunes, (music I’d never heard) I asked questions. Lots of them! This is common for me, especially if a person is open to share. 

We discussed our current professions, her ideal job, her passions and hobbies. I was enthralled by her interest in horror movies and her desire to teach. She declared her "dream" is to become a Sociology professor, focusing on the culture of horror films. I have never been a fan of scary movies, but I appreciated her excitement and she had my attention. 

I hypothesized what her class would be like. I asked her about the hypothetical structure of the course and how she would develop her syllabus. Her passion was exquisite,creative and fulfilling. I felt I’d hit the jackpot when it comes to alluring interaction with another being; someone “different” from me, to say the least.

She was intrigued by my different jobs (PR, butcher, balloon decorator, dog walker, entrepreneur,etc.) and surprised at my laid-back, “chill” demeanor, especially when she found out I grew up in a suburb of the infamous “North Shore.”  Meanwhile, my little head was spinning with different ideas, questions and excitement of my new found "friend."

I would say the 45 minute tardiness to my date (I think that's what it was?!?), due to my over extended “visit,” was justifiable! I had great stories to share and the experience to connect and learn from someone I might have passed on the street but never met, was not only priceless but also timeless. 

I’ll definitely be going back for another adventure (I mean mani-pedi)!